Baxi issues Safety Alert for Potterton Powermax HE boilers

A Safety Alert has been issued by Baxi, in conjunction with Gas Safe, in response to a very small risk associated with Potterton Powermax HE boilers manufactured between 2001 and November 18 2005.

Potterton Powermax HE boilers produced during this time were manufactured with an aluminium flue/condensate connector. Baxi’s continuous improvement programme has highlighted that, in very extreme cases, where several factors occur simultaneously, carbon monoxide (CO) above normal operational levels could potentially escape from this flue/condensate connector. It would be unusual for these factors to occur at the same time, hence the probability of this situation occurring is very low.

Baxi has ensured it takes safety extremely seriously and therefore, even though the risks are very small, as a precautionary measure the company has issued a Safety Alert recommending that all original aluminium Potterton Powermax HE flue/condensate connectors are upgraded to black composite plastic versions, irrespective of their condition.

The company will supply and fit the replacement black composite plastic flue/condensate connectors on all affected boilers completely free of charge*.

When undertaking work on Potterton Powermax HE boilers, Gas Safe registered engineers are advised to follow the inspection procedure and further actions outlined in Safety Alert 013. A copy of the Safety Alert can be obtained by calling the Powermax HE helpline on 0800 0288 299 or visiting the Gas Safe website.

Affected customers should be advised to organise an upgrade at their earliest convenience by visiting www.potterton.co.uk/powermax or calling the dedicated Powermax HE free helpline on 0800 0288 299.

A spokesperson for Baxi said: “Safety is of paramount importance to us, so we have taken precautionary action. We know that many of the original aluminium flue/condensate connectors on Powermax HE boilers have already been exchanged during annual servicing and maintenance, but we have issued a Safety Alert and have contacted all known customers that potentially still have a boiler with an aluminium component to offer them a free of charge upgrade. We would like to thank Gas Safe engineers for their anticipated assistance in this matter.”

*Only the component upgrade will be supplied free of charge. If, during the upgrade process, the engineer identifies any installation, system or flue issues requiring additional remedial action they will discuss the cost with the customer before any work takes place.